TriChrome
03-06-2018, 11:37 PM
From: BOB FORD [BOB_FORD@compuserve.com]
Sent: Sunday, August 13, 2000 2:22 PM
To: Blind.Copy.Receiver@compuserve.com
Subject: 57-56-55 CHEVY LISTL
THIS IS THE 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
THIS LIST IS DESIGNED AS A MEANS FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE 1955, 1956,
AND 1957 CHEVROLETS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER. ALL OPINIONS
ARE WELCOME.
TO POST SOMETHING ON THIS LIST PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR POST TO
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
THERE IS NO COST TO BECOME A LIST MEMBER AND ONLY LIST MEMBERS ARE
ALLOWED TO POST SOMETHING ON THE LIST.
THIS 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST IS NOT SENT OUT ON ANY SET SCHEDULE SO IF YOU
WANT TO POST SOMETHING THAT CONTAINS A DATE, PLEASE SEND IT IN EARLY
SO I CAN GET IT OUT TO THE LIST MEMBERS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE EVENT.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR CITY AND STATE WITH YOUR POSTS. IF YOU ARE
POSTING SOMETHING FOR SALE PLEASE ALSO INCLUDE
1. YOUR PHONE NUMBER
2 THE PRICE
3. WHEN YOU WILL BE AT YOUR PHONE NUMBER AND YOUR TIME ZONE.
TAKE AS MUCH SPACE AS YOU WANT AND FULLY DESCRIBE WHAT YOU HAVE
FOR SALE OR WANT TO BUY.
YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS LIST ARE WELCOME.
IF YOU WANT TO SEND ME E-MAIL THAT YOU DO NOT WANT ON THE LIST
PLEASE PUT "PRIVATE NOT FOR THE LIST' AS THE SUBJECT.
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS LIST ARE THE MEMBERS OPINIONS AND NOT
NECESSARILY MINE.
THANKS
BOB FORD
EDITOR
__________________________________________________ ____________________
From: Editor
I received this letter in the mail today. I will share it with you and my
reply.
Dear Mr. Ford
Please help me. My friends at the local Classic Chevy Club that my husband
belonged to gave me
your name and address. My husband died about a year ago and since that time
I have been trying
to sell his pride and joy, a restored 57 Chevy. I have listed it for sale
in the local paper many
times and I have also listed it for sale in OLD CARS, HEMMINGS, and the
local Auto Trader. In
the one year I have had it for sale I have had only one call about the ad
and that was from
someone trying to sell me an ad in another publication. No one has ever
came to see the car. I really
need the money from the sale of the car. What am I doing wrong? The car
is in perfect
condition. My husband Ron, had it professionally restored. He had the best
of everything put in
the car. Every part is either new or rebuilt. He had modern power steering
and brakes installed.
He had a new crate 350 motor installed. He had the Turboglide transmission
and rear end rebuilt.
He had the car painted with Imron which he said was the best paint
available. It has 5 new
chrome wheels. It is wonderful to drive and I drive it once a week as he
told me to do to keep the
seals in good condition. I have receipts for over $40,000 he spent for the
restoration. I would like
to recover as much of that money as possible so I have it for sale at
$38,000. The car is a 57
Belair 4 door hardtop (no post). My friends think $38,000 is a reasonable
price for the car. My
husband won many trophies with the car.
Please tell me how to sell this car as I really need the money now.
Janice
This was my reply:
Dear Janice
My condolences on the loss of your husband. I will try to give you some
good advice on selling
your car. The number one reason for a lack of response to ads is the price
is too high for the car
described in the ad. However the good news is that a car priced right will
sell.
First please read the information below that came from the latest issue of
Old Cars Price Guide.
The worth of an old car is a 'ball- park' estimate at best. Our prices come
from compilations
of national/regional data by the editors of our weekly publication, Old
Cars Weekly News &
Marketplace. These data include prices from collector-car auctions,
verified reports of private
sales, and input from experts. We list values for cars in six different
states of condition as
explained below. Prices are for complete vehicles; not parts cars, except
as noted. Modified
car values are not included, but can be estimated by figuring the cost of
restoring to original and
deducting from the figures shown here. Old Cars Price Guide condition codes
fit the following
descriptions.
1) EXCELLENT: Restored to current maximum professional standards of quality
in every area,
or perfect original with components operating and appearing as new. A
95-plus point show car
that is not driven. In national show judging, a car in No. I condition is
likely to win top honors in
its class. In a sense, it has ceased to be an automobile and has become an
object of art. It is
transported to shows in an enclosed trailer, and, when not being shown, it
is stored in a
climate-controlled facility. IT IS NOT DRIVEN. There are very few No. 1
cars.
2) FINE: Well restored, or a combination of superior restoration and
excellent original. Also, an
extremely well maintained original showing very minimal wear. Except for
the very closest
inspection, a No. 2 vehicle may appear as a No. 1. The No. 2 vehicle will
take the top award in
many judged shows, except when squared off against a No. 1 example in its
own class. It may
also be driven 800-1,000 miles each year to shows, on tours, and simply for
pleasure.
The prices listed from the latest issue (October 2000) of Old Cars Price
guide for a 57 Belair 4
door V8 hard top are as follows.
Condition 1 (Excellent) $14,000
Condition 2 (Fine) $9,800
Add 10 percent for A/C, 15 Percent for "Power Pack", 20 percent for Fuel
Injection. Add 10
percent for dual 4 barrel carbs.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
As stated above these are ball park numbers and your car could be worth
more or less than the
above numbers. However the farther you get away from those numbers, the
harder it is to sell a
car. Most car buyers use the Old Cars Price Guide as a starting point when
they want to buy a
car.
Since your car is driven it can not be a number 1 condition car. So lets
assume that it is a number
2 condition car. Also some models of 57 Chevys are more popular than other
models so the price
will vary depending on the model for sale. For example the Nomad is a very
desirable model so it
will sell for more than other models even if the other models have a better
restoration.
There are several other factors a person looking to buy a car will
consider. Not every factor will
be important to every buyer.
First you have a modified car. There is nothing wrong with a modified car
but many buyers of
old cars want a "numbers matching" car which means it has not been
modified. These buyers will
reduce the amount they will pay for a modified car by the amount of money
they think it will cost
to restore it to original. This is true even if the modifications make it
a better car which many
modifications do. For example an alternator is better than a generator but
some people will want
a generator.
Also you have a 4 door hardtop. These cars have a reputation for leaking
around the windows.
Even if your car does not leak around the windows, this could lower the
what people will pay for
your car.
Your car has a Turboglide transmission which is something most buyers do
not want as they have
a bad reputation and it is almost impossible to get them repaired. Even if
the transmission works
perfectly, the perceived value is less. A large group of potential buyers
now want a modern
transmission in their car such as the 700R4. Many others want either a
350 or 400 transmission
in place of a Powerglide.
The 5 new chrome wheels may make your car less valuable to some buyers. I
know they improve
the looks of the car but to some buyers they suggest that the car has been
raced. Racing a car
means a motor with hard usage to these buyers EVEN if the car has NEVER
been raced.
However your car may have some other features that add to the value. It
may be painted in a
popular color. It may have beautiful chrome. Has a famous person owned
the car before your
husband owned it? Try to find out the cars history from the former
owners.
I can understand your husband having a first class restoration done on his
car. This is quite
common in the hobby. Most restoration shops will tell you a phrase they
hear often is "nothing
but the best". However, unless it is a VERY unusual car, the car will be
worth less that the
cost of restoration. The best you can do is think of all the enjoyment you
and your husband got
from owning the car. That has to be worth something.
Here is my suggestion. Contact the people that restored your car and have
them list exactly what
they did to the car. If you have before and after pictures, put them
together in a book to show the
various stages of restoration. Get the car appraised from a good appraiser.
Tell him/her that you
want the true value of the car. Then advertise the car at or near the
appraised price. I will be
happy to list your car for sale on the 57-56-55 Chevy list at no cost. I
also suggest you contact
your local Chevy club and ask them to list your car for sale in their
newsletter. They usually do
that for free. If you have access to a computer list the car for sale in
http://www.traderonline.com. They do not charge for these ads.
/S/BOB FORD
List members, I have tried to help this lady and with the best advice I
know. If anyone has a
suggestion on how I can help her I will be glad to pass it along to her.
If you disagree with my
advice I will pass that along to her as well.
BOB
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Anthony", INTERNET:THEBABIAKS@prodigy.net
As to Smokey's trivia question on the AMC Pacer, the passenger side door
was
longer than the drivers door to make rear seat entry easier. A short
drivers door made it easier to open wide in parking lots. My dad always
bought four doors for this reason.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "'BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM'", BOB_FORD
From: "Dunagan, David/ATL", INTERNET:ddunagan@CH2M.com
Hi Bob--I'm told you're the man to contact about finding a list of '55
through '57 Chevys for sale. I'm interested in buying one. I live in
Atlanta, so cars in the Southeast would be preferable. I'd appreciate any
leads you can give. Thx.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Rick Williams", INTERNET:rickerwill@worldnet.att.net
To Gary Hurley and the list:
I love listening to the Leon Kaplan ("Motorman") show on Sunday morning.
Sometimes he jumps to some quick conclusions and diagnoses, based on pretty
sketchy info from his callers, but for the most part, his advice is right
on, and he clearly has spent MUCH time under the hood. I found the
following bio on the Nashville Auto-Diesel College Graduate Hall of Fame
website:
Mr. Leon Kaplan owns Lancer Automotive Service in Los Angeles, CA. Lancer
Automotive holds the reputation as the "ultimate solution" for repairing
all
types of cars from Rolls Royces to Pintos. He has been called the "mechanic
to the stars." He invented the "Hydro Stick Transmission." Leon has his own
weekly three hour radio series on KNADC Talk Radio. This show is the number
one rated weekend radio program in Los Angeles. Leon has appeared on The
CBS
Morning News, Late Night America, The Wil Shriner Show, and the Home Show.
Here is what I found on a net search for his business:
LEON KAPLAN'S LANCER AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE INC
8151 W 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048-0431
Phone: (323) 653-1100
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
Sorry, I could not find an email address. Maybe I'll try calling his
program Sunday!
Reno Rick
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "shew", INTERNET:ethan@compunet.net
Hello Everyone,
I would like to thank everyone who has responded to questions I have posted
on this list. I would like to thank Steve Holmes who took time to send me a
couple of excellent emails on the 700r4 transmission. He has a great site
that everyone should check out before they install a new transmission.
I hope the email from Tom Prizzi, about the problems he had restoring his
car continues from others. Letters like that make me a better informed
buyer. I plan to install a variety of different "kits" for my 57, disc
brakes, power steering and air to name a few. When I know some people have
had trouble installing their "made to fit", "no modification necessary",
"bolt in kit" I will ask that company if they are still having that problem
and what are they going to do to correct it if it happens to me.
The problem I have with some companies is this paying to become a member to
get a better price. Do these people think they are the only ones to sale
these parts? I have compared their pricing to "free companies" I have also
thrown away two membership catalog's. With more and more companies
entering the market for my money I am more then willing to try them first.
One day I may have to join a membership club to get something I need but I
will join, get what I need and get out. Who say's that? I say that!
Charlie Shew
ethan@compunet.net
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "surface1", INTERNET:SURFACE1@prodigy.net
R2D2 you need a 350 from a chevy only. Buick and others have different bolt
pattern at least that's the way the 400 is!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
To: "'BOB FORD'", BOB_FORD
From: "Malas, Timothy", INTERNET:trmalas@uop.com
Bob,
I would like to put a question on your list for anyone who can help me. I
have a 57 4 door Belair all original 283 with 2 speed power glide. Car has
only 28,000 miles on it. I finally got my dream car. My question is when I
push on the gas pedal once in awhile the pedal (throttle) will stick. I
would have to reach down and release it. I have checked the linkage and
lubed it all and all of it looks ok to me. How can I resolve this from
happening. Please send answers to trmalas@uop.com.
Thankyou Tim
Editor's note. It might be a carb problem. There must be a story on a 57
with only 28,000 miles. Do you know the story?
BOB
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: WOLFGANG KUPKA, INTERNET:wolfgangv@earthlink.net
bob, i own a 57 chevy convertible, turboglide, 283 with a power pack.
i purchased the car a few months ago from someone here in Pasadena. he
owned the car for 5 years and hardley drove the car. it came from
Tennessee and was a frame up restoration about 8 years ago. the car is
about a 75-80 point car. i need help in finding a good mechanic and
restoration person in the Pasadena area. it leaks around the power
steering pistons and the rear main seal.the left door hangs and a few
other small problems.
i can fix the easy stuff.
thanks for all your help and support.
Wolf
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: WOLFGANG KUPKA, INTERNET:wolfgangv@earthlink.net
I am looking for a rear seat for a 57 chevy convertible, does your hardtop
seat
fit
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com, INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com
Regarding the problem Tom Prizzis had with his air in his 1956 Chevy-I have
a
1955 Chevy with a big block, in the process of putting dropped spindles,
disc brakes, and digital dash. I've mounted the compressor with no
problems
but could you define the problems that have occurred for other people with
vintage air. I enjoy the website and if you can reply it would be
appreciated. Thank you. George Terry
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: Pete LeMmon, INTERNET:pete.lemmon@usa.net
1956 was first year GM did 4 door hardtops in all model lines. Chevy did
210
hardtops in 2 and 4 door models as well as the Belair in 56.
Pete
__________________________________________________ __________________
To: [unknown], bob_ford
From: EMORY BISHOP, INTERNET:mainlychevy@webcombo.net
HI BOB:
PLEASE RUN THE FOLLOWING AD:
I JUST GOT A NOMAD BRASS LIFT GATE OUT OF THE CHROME SHOP. IT HAS BEEN
STRAIGHTENED MY JERRY CABONOC AND CHROMED BY LEMON GROVE PLATING. THIS
IS THE FIRST BRASS LIFTGATE I HAVE EVER HAD AND IT IS BEAUTIFUL. I AM
ASKING $1800 OR BEST OFFER. IT IS ABOUT 20% HEAVIER THAN A POT METAL
LIFT GATE AND NO PITS IN BRASS. I WILL BE LEAVING FOR THE EAST COAST ON
20 AUGUST AND WILL BE ATTENDING THE BELOW SWAP MEETS. IF I DO NOT SELL
PRIOR TO LEAVING I WILL TAKE THE LIFT GATE WITH ME. DIGITAL PICTURES ARE
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
SWAP MEETS:
AUG.24-26 ALBUQUERQUE NM. CCI WESTERN NATIONAL
AUG. 30-SEPT 5 AUBURN IND. KRUSE SWAP AND AUCTION .
SEPT. 7-10 SPRINGFIELD OH. MAIN STREET K65-58
SEPT 14-17 CHARLETTE NC.
SEPT 21-24 ENGLISHTOWN NJ P 99-100
SEPT 27-OCT 1 CARLISLE PA. IM 41-44
OCT. 4-7 HERSHEY PA. C2C 23-25
OCT. 12-15 CHICKASHA, OK. RB 54-59
EMORY BISHOP
MAINLY CHEVROLET
SAN DIEGO, CA.
858-569-0582
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
To: Bob Ford, bob_ford
From: Steve Holmes, INTERNET:dr700r4@earthlink.net
Ralph:
If you stop by our trailer at Long Beach swap meet this coming Sunday, I
will be glad to share with you any information I have.
We never install original Powerglides, we take them out and replace them
with modern overdrives, however I do have units we took out of original
cars that you are welcome to have if you wish to install the original
style Powerglide back in. Some of these units worked just fine.
There are a number of good ways to install a more modern transmission
into your 55, this is of course what we do for a living, so we've done
it many times. If you let me know which way you want to process with
this I would be glad to help where I can.
Steve Holmes
Bow Tie Overdrives
------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Edward Shockley", INTERNET:drshock@insectria.net
Bob,
I'm looking for a complete 1957 265ci TRUCK engine of all things for my
most
recent project. Has to be at least a long block setup, not just a bare
engine block.
It has to be cast dated in late April to early May 1957 only. Overbore
is ok, but has to be a 265, no 283s desired. It can be a passenger car
265ci block on the stamp code, that's ok as I am ok with restamping the
code
to get the right cast dates.
Thought maybe someone on the list might have a lead so please post.
Thanx,
Edward D. Shockley (remove the "nospam" if present in my address to reply)
http://www.insectria.org/1957.html
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Jack E. Mooney", INTERNET:mcspeedo@nfdc.net
In response to Robert regarding everybody says buy a car already
restored....I agree with the comment about pride and accomplishment doing
it
yourself...yes in deed....but em, THAT LOVE AND PRIDE WILL COST YOU....it
is CHEAPER now to buy one completed..you generally get the guys labor
(Sweat) for nothing! Also less the aggravation...beware ...make sure it is
a
good restoration job....look closely..you can tell. Some guys will even
give
you the scrap book...free of charge. Oh...and a NOTE about the scrap book-
My experience has been that if you show off your restoration scrap book too
much...especially at shows...it definitely downgrades your car...everybody
wants to think that it was a Cherry! So if you gots lots of money and
time...buy the old wreck and fixer up- remember though, you will never get
the bucks back out of it and there not many good shape cars around- they
have all been restored.
--------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Rex & Maree Kelland", INTERNET:kelland@thevision.net
I noted one of the members comments of pertronix compared to mallory,I have
found that pertronix is a very good long lasting unit ,fit it & forget it &
compared to the price of around $60 for a complete kit as to mallory's $90
just for the module it'self ,,which I have found to be very susceptible to
voltage change ,(dont run more than 12 volts to the mallory module ) or
kiss goodbye to another $90,which sometimes happens in the crank position
if you have an alternator that really puts out ,as it bypasses the resistor
in this position,I learned this the hard way ,and now have doubled the
resistance on the voltage drop at the coil as the mallory tech's told me
there unit will run fine at even 6volts,and they gave me a wiring diagram
,to use with the resistors,I have now been using this on my 55 hardtop with
mallory unilite dist, for the last 6 years with no more problems ,but have
fitted many pertonix units to customers cars & found them to be very
reliable & easy to fit ,the longest time on installation is actually
shortening the wires to the coil so the installation looks neat,as it is
only a ten minute job to install the unit ,I would strongly suggest the
pertronix ignitor kit to anyone with a chevy as ,that points changing at
the back of the engine,just doesn't seem fun anymore after using these
units for the last few years ,I strongly recommend to just remove the
distributor from the eng,and lube up the advance weight mechanism etc &
give it the once over at installation,because this is the last time you'll
have to look at it again,thanks Kiwi ,member of central valley classic
chevy club ,hope to see anyone on the list at the route 66 run in Sept as
we will have a few cars down there ,Iam bringing my 55 home from the paint
booth tomorrow after giving the car a new look ,of parl white top and a
purple pearl lower half ,,check us out there.
Rex & Maree Kelland
kelland@thevision.net
(209) 523 6654
---------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Chevy156@aol.com, INTERNET:Chevy156@aol.com
I'm still wondering if driving that fast isn't good for a Classic!
Virginia in Bakersfield, CA
Well, All I've got to say is last month I took a trip with my 56 From
Brooklyn New York To Strongsville Ohio the trip took around 11 hours with
stops included.
The average speed my 56 was being driven was between 75 to 90 MPH.
The drive there was great & so was the similar drive back. Infact the long
drive has seemed to make the engine run better. I must admit I have a 700R4
overdrive tranny in my car so my engines RPM's are a lot less than that of
your typical Transmission.
It's very Possible that the Nomad you seen traveling at warp speed might
have
been sporting the same overdrive tranny as I have. With low rear end gears
he
could have easily been traveling 100 MPH or better. The engine would have
felt like it was slightly above an idle & the ride would have been as
smooth
as if he was driving 55.
I would bet the farm that the Nomad you encountered was no Stock Original
;o)
James ..... Chevy156@aol.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
end of 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
BOB FORD
18091 MARK CIRCLE
VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA 92861-2648
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BOB_FORD/
http://members.home.net:80/rick.b/Bobford.htm
VOICE 714-637-8877
FAX 714-637-2955
Editor of the 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST and TURBOGLIDE REGISTRY
Sent: Sunday, August 13, 2000 2:22 PM
To: Blind.Copy.Receiver@compuserve.com
Subject: 57-56-55 CHEVY LISTL
THIS IS THE 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
THIS LIST IS DESIGNED AS A MEANS FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE 1955, 1956,
AND 1957 CHEVROLETS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER. ALL OPINIONS
ARE WELCOME.
TO POST SOMETHING ON THIS LIST PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR POST TO
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
THERE IS NO COST TO BECOME A LIST MEMBER AND ONLY LIST MEMBERS ARE
ALLOWED TO POST SOMETHING ON THE LIST.
THIS 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST IS NOT SENT OUT ON ANY SET SCHEDULE SO IF YOU
WANT TO POST SOMETHING THAT CONTAINS A DATE, PLEASE SEND IT IN EARLY
SO I CAN GET IT OUT TO THE LIST MEMBERS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE EVENT.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR CITY AND STATE WITH YOUR POSTS. IF YOU ARE
POSTING SOMETHING FOR SALE PLEASE ALSO INCLUDE
1. YOUR PHONE NUMBER
2 THE PRICE
3. WHEN YOU WILL BE AT YOUR PHONE NUMBER AND YOUR TIME ZONE.
TAKE AS MUCH SPACE AS YOU WANT AND FULLY DESCRIBE WHAT YOU HAVE
FOR SALE OR WANT TO BUY.
YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS LIST ARE WELCOME.
IF YOU WANT TO SEND ME E-MAIL THAT YOU DO NOT WANT ON THE LIST
PLEASE PUT "PRIVATE NOT FOR THE LIST' AS THE SUBJECT.
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS LIST ARE THE MEMBERS OPINIONS AND NOT
NECESSARILY MINE.
THANKS
BOB FORD
EDITOR
__________________________________________________ ____________________
From: Editor
I received this letter in the mail today. I will share it with you and my
reply.
Dear Mr. Ford
Please help me. My friends at the local Classic Chevy Club that my husband
belonged to gave me
your name and address. My husband died about a year ago and since that time
I have been trying
to sell his pride and joy, a restored 57 Chevy. I have listed it for sale
in the local paper many
times and I have also listed it for sale in OLD CARS, HEMMINGS, and the
local Auto Trader. In
the one year I have had it for sale I have had only one call about the ad
and that was from
someone trying to sell me an ad in another publication. No one has ever
came to see the car. I really
need the money from the sale of the car. What am I doing wrong? The car
is in perfect
condition. My husband Ron, had it professionally restored. He had the best
of everything put in
the car. Every part is either new or rebuilt. He had modern power steering
and brakes installed.
He had a new crate 350 motor installed. He had the Turboglide transmission
and rear end rebuilt.
He had the car painted with Imron which he said was the best paint
available. It has 5 new
chrome wheels. It is wonderful to drive and I drive it once a week as he
told me to do to keep the
seals in good condition. I have receipts for over $40,000 he spent for the
restoration. I would like
to recover as much of that money as possible so I have it for sale at
$38,000. The car is a 57
Belair 4 door hardtop (no post). My friends think $38,000 is a reasonable
price for the car. My
husband won many trophies with the car.
Please tell me how to sell this car as I really need the money now.
Janice
This was my reply:
Dear Janice
My condolences on the loss of your husband. I will try to give you some
good advice on selling
your car. The number one reason for a lack of response to ads is the price
is too high for the car
described in the ad. However the good news is that a car priced right will
sell.
First please read the information below that came from the latest issue of
Old Cars Price Guide.
The worth of an old car is a 'ball- park' estimate at best. Our prices come
from compilations
of national/regional data by the editors of our weekly publication, Old
Cars Weekly News &
Marketplace. These data include prices from collector-car auctions,
verified reports of private
sales, and input from experts. We list values for cars in six different
states of condition as
explained below. Prices are for complete vehicles; not parts cars, except
as noted. Modified
car values are not included, but can be estimated by figuring the cost of
restoring to original and
deducting from the figures shown here. Old Cars Price Guide condition codes
fit the following
descriptions.
1) EXCELLENT: Restored to current maximum professional standards of quality
in every area,
or perfect original with components operating and appearing as new. A
95-plus point show car
that is not driven. In national show judging, a car in No. I condition is
likely to win top honors in
its class. In a sense, it has ceased to be an automobile and has become an
object of art. It is
transported to shows in an enclosed trailer, and, when not being shown, it
is stored in a
climate-controlled facility. IT IS NOT DRIVEN. There are very few No. 1
cars.
2) FINE: Well restored, or a combination of superior restoration and
excellent original. Also, an
extremely well maintained original showing very minimal wear. Except for
the very closest
inspection, a No. 2 vehicle may appear as a No. 1. The No. 2 vehicle will
take the top award in
many judged shows, except when squared off against a No. 1 example in its
own class. It may
also be driven 800-1,000 miles each year to shows, on tours, and simply for
pleasure.
The prices listed from the latest issue (October 2000) of Old Cars Price
guide for a 57 Belair 4
door V8 hard top are as follows.
Condition 1 (Excellent) $14,000
Condition 2 (Fine) $9,800
Add 10 percent for A/C, 15 Percent for "Power Pack", 20 percent for Fuel
Injection. Add 10
percent for dual 4 barrel carbs.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
As stated above these are ball park numbers and your car could be worth
more or less than the
above numbers. However the farther you get away from those numbers, the
harder it is to sell a
car. Most car buyers use the Old Cars Price Guide as a starting point when
they want to buy a
car.
Since your car is driven it can not be a number 1 condition car. So lets
assume that it is a number
2 condition car. Also some models of 57 Chevys are more popular than other
models so the price
will vary depending on the model for sale. For example the Nomad is a very
desirable model so it
will sell for more than other models even if the other models have a better
restoration.
There are several other factors a person looking to buy a car will
consider. Not every factor will
be important to every buyer.
First you have a modified car. There is nothing wrong with a modified car
but many buyers of
old cars want a "numbers matching" car which means it has not been
modified. These buyers will
reduce the amount they will pay for a modified car by the amount of money
they think it will cost
to restore it to original. This is true even if the modifications make it
a better car which many
modifications do. For example an alternator is better than a generator but
some people will want
a generator.
Also you have a 4 door hardtop. These cars have a reputation for leaking
around the windows.
Even if your car does not leak around the windows, this could lower the
what people will pay for
your car.
Your car has a Turboglide transmission which is something most buyers do
not want as they have
a bad reputation and it is almost impossible to get them repaired. Even if
the transmission works
perfectly, the perceived value is less. A large group of potential buyers
now want a modern
transmission in their car such as the 700R4. Many others want either a
350 or 400 transmission
in place of a Powerglide.
The 5 new chrome wheels may make your car less valuable to some buyers. I
know they improve
the looks of the car but to some buyers they suggest that the car has been
raced. Racing a car
means a motor with hard usage to these buyers EVEN if the car has NEVER
been raced.
However your car may have some other features that add to the value. It
may be painted in a
popular color. It may have beautiful chrome. Has a famous person owned
the car before your
husband owned it? Try to find out the cars history from the former
owners.
I can understand your husband having a first class restoration done on his
car. This is quite
common in the hobby. Most restoration shops will tell you a phrase they
hear often is "nothing
but the best". However, unless it is a VERY unusual car, the car will be
worth less that the
cost of restoration. The best you can do is think of all the enjoyment you
and your husband got
from owning the car. That has to be worth something.
Here is my suggestion. Contact the people that restored your car and have
them list exactly what
they did to the car. If you have before and after pictures, put them
together in a book to show the
various stages of restoration. Get the car appraised from a good appraiser.
Tell him/her that you
want the true value of the car. Then advertise the car at or near the
appraised price. I will be
happy to list your car for sale on the 57-56-55 Chevy list at no cost. I
also suggest you contact
your local Chevy club and ask them to list your car for sale in their
newsletter. They usually do
that for free. If you have access to a computer list the car for sale in
http://www.traderonline.com. They do not charge for these ads.
/S/BOB FORD
List members, I have tried to help this lady and with the best advice I
know. If anyone has a
suggestion on how I can help her I will be glad to pass it along to her.
If you disagree with my
advice I will pass that along to her as well.
BOB
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Anthony", INTERNET:THEBABIAKS@prodigy.net
As to Smokey's trivia question on the AMC Pacer, the passenger side door
was
longer than the drivers door to make rear seat entry easier. A short
drivers door made it easier to open wide in parking lots. My dad always
bought four doors for this reason.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "'BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM'", BOB_FORD
From: "Dunagan, David/ATL", INTERNET:ddunagan@CH2M.com
Hi Bob--I'm told you're the man to contact about finding a list of '55
through '57 Chevys for sale. I'm interested in buying one. I live in
Atlanta, so cars in the Southeast would be preferable. I'd appreciate any
leads you can give. Thx.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Rick Williams", INTERNET:rickerwill@worldnet.att.net
To Gary Hurley and the list:
I love listening to the Leon Kaplan ("Motorman") show on Sunday morning.
Sometimes he jumps to some quick conclusions and diagnoses, based on pretty
sketchy info from his callers, but for the most part, his advice is right
on, and he clearly has spent MUCH time under the hood. I found the
following bio on the Nashville Auto-Diesel College Graduate Hall of Fame
website:
Mr. Leon Kaplan owns Lancer Automotive Service in Los Angeles, CA. Lancer
Automotive holds the reputation as the "ultimate solution" for repairing
all
types of cars from Rolls Royces to Pintos. He has been called the "mechanic
to the stars." He invented the "Hydro Stick Transmission." Leon has his own
weekly three hour radio series on KNADC Talk Radio. This show is the number
one rated weekend radio program in Los Angeles. Leon has appeared on The
CBS
Morning News, Late Night America, The Wil Shriner Show, and the Home Show.
Here is what I found on a net search for his business:
LEON KAPLAN'S LANCER AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE INC
8151 W 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048-0431
Phone: (323) 653-1100
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
Sorry, I could not find an email address. Maybe I'll try calling his
program Sunday!
Reno Rick
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "shew", INTERNET:ethan@compunet.net
Hello Everyone,
I would like to thank everyone who has responded to questions I have posted
on this list. I would like to thank Steve Holmes who took time to send me a
couple of excellent emails on the 700r4 transmission. He has a great site
that everyone should check out before they install a new transmission.
I hope the email from Tom Prizzi, about the problems he had restoring his
car continues from others. Letters like that make me a better informed
buyer. I plan to install a variety of different "kits" for my 57, disc
brakes, power steering and air to name a few. When I know some people have
had trouble installing their "made to fit", "no modification necessary",
"bolt in kit" I will ask that company if they are still having that problem
and what are they going to do to correct it if it happens to me.
The problem I have with some companies is this paying to become a member to
get a better price. Do these people think they are the only ones to sale
these parts? I have compared their pricing to "free companies" I have also
thrown away two membership catalog's. With more and more companies
entering the market for my money I am more then willing to try them first.
One day I may have to join a membership club to get something I need but I
will join, get what I need and get out. Who say's that? I say that!
Charlie Shew
ethan@compunet.net
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "surface1", INTERNET:SURFACE1@prodigy.net
R2D2 you need a 350 from a chevy only. Buick and others have different bolt
pattern at least that's the way the 400 is!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
To: "'BOB FORD'", BOB_FORD
From: "Malas, Timothy", INTERNET:trmalas@uop.com
Bob,
I would like to put a question on your list for anyone who can help me. I
have a 57 4 door Belair all original 283 with 2 speed power glide. Car has
only 28,000 miles on it. I finally got my dream car. My question is when I
push on the gas pedal once in awhile the pedal (throttle) will stick. I
would have to reach down and release it. I have checked the linkage and
lubed it all and all of it looks ok to me. How can I resolve this from
happening. Please send answers to trmalas@uop.com.
Thankyou Tim
Editor's note. It might be a carb problem. There must be a story on a 57
with only 28,000 miles. Do you know the story?
BOB
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: WOLFGANG KUPKA, INTERNET:wolfgangv@earthlink.net
bob, i own a 57 chevy convertible, turboglide, 283 with a power pack.
i purchased the car a few months ago from someone here in Pasadena. he
owned the car for 5 years and hardley drove the car. it came from
Tennessee and was a frame up restoration about 8 years ago. the car is
about a 75-80 point car. i need help in finding a good mechanic and
restoration person in the Pasadena area. it leaks around the power
steering pistons and the rear main seal.the left door hangs and a few
other small problems.
i can fix the easy stuff.
thanks for all your help and support.
Wolf
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: WOLFGANG KUPKA, INTERNET:wolfgangv@earthlink.net
I am looking for a rear seat for a 57 chevy convertible, does your hardtop
seat
fit
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com, INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com
Regarding the problem Tom Prizzis had with his air in his 1956 Chevy-I have
a
1955 Chevy with a big block, in the process of putting dropped spindles,
disc brakes, and digital dash. I've mounted the compressor with no
problems
but could you define the problems that have occurred for other people with
vintage air. I enjoy the website and if you can reply it would be
appreciated. Thank you. George Terry
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: Pete LeMmon, INTERNET:pete.lemmon@usa.net
1956 was first year GM did 4 door hardtops in all model lines. Chevy did
210
hardtops in 2 and 4 door models as well as the Belair in 56.
Pete
__________________________________________________ __________________
To: [unknown], bob_ford
From: EMORY BISHOP, INTERNET:mainlychevy@webcombo.net
HI BOB:
PLEASE RUN THE FOLLOWING AD:
I JUST GOT A NOMAD BRASS LIFT GATE OUT OF THE CHROME SHOP. IT HAS BEEN
STRAIGHTENED MY JERRY CABONOC AND CHROMED BY LEMON GROVE PLATING. THIS
IS THE FIRST BRASS LIFTGATE I HAVE EVER HAD AND IT IS BEAUTIFUL. I AM
ASKING $1800 OR BEST OFFER. IT IS ABOUT 20% HEAVIER THAN A POT METAL
LIFT GATE AND NO PITS IN BRASS. I WILL BE LEAVING FOR THE EAST COAST ON
20 AUGUST AND WILL BE ATTENDING THE BELOW SWAP MEETS. IF I DO NOT SELL
PRIOR TO LEAVING I WILL TAKE THE LIFT GATE WITH ME. DIGITAL PICTURES ARE
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
SWAP MEETS:
AUG.24-26 ALBUQUERQUE NM. CCI WESTERN NATIONAL
AUG. 30-SEPT 5 AUBURN IND. KRUSE SWAP AND AUCTION .
SEPT. 7-10 SPRINGFIELD OH. MAIN STREET K65-58
SEPT 14-17 CHARLETTE NC.
SEPT 21-24 ENGLISHTOWN NJ P 99-100
SEPT 27-OCT 1 CARLISLE PA. IM 41-44
OCT. 4-7 HERSHEY PA. C2C 23-25
OCT. 12-15 CHICKASHA, OK. RB 54-59
EMORY BISHOP
MAINLY CHEVROLET
SAN DIEGO, CA.
858-569-0582
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
To: Bob Ford, bob_ford
From: Steve Holmes, INTERNET:dr700r4@earthlink.net
Ralph:
If you stop by our trailer at Long Beach swap meet this coming Sunday, I
will be glad to share with you any information I have.
We never install original Powerglides, we take them out and replace them
with modern overdrives, however I do have units we took out of original
cars that you are welcome to have if you wish to install the original
style Powerglide back in. Some of these units worked just fine.
There are a number of good ways to install a more modern transmission
into your 55, this is of course what we do for a living, so we've done
it many times. If you let me know which way you want to process with
this I would be glad to help where I can.
Steve Holmes
Bow Tie Overdrives
------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Edward Shockley", INTERNET:drshock@insectria.net
Bob,
I'm looking for a complete 1957 265ci TRUCK engine of all things for my
most
recent project. Has to be at least a long block setup, not just a bare
engine block.
It has to be cast dated in late April to early May 1957 only. Overbore
is ok, but has to be a 265, no 283s desired. It can be a passenger car
265ci block on the stamp code, that's ok as I am ok with restamping the
code
to get the right cast dates.
Thought maybe someone on the list might have a lead so please post.
Thanx,
Edward D. Shockley (remove the "nospam" if present in my address to reply)
http://www.insectria.org/1957.html
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Jack E. Mooney", INTERNET:mcspeedo@nfdc.net
In response to Robert regarding everybody says buy a car already
restored....I agree with the comment about pride and accomplishment doing
it
yourself...yes in deed....but em, THAT LOVE AND PRIDE WILL COST YOU....it
is CHEAPER now to buy one completed..you generally get the guys labor
(Sweat) for nothing! Also less the aggravation...beware ...make sure it is
a
good restoration job....look closely..you can tell. Some guys will even
give
you the scrap book...free of charge. Oh...and a NOTE about the scrap book-
My experience has been that if you show off your restoration scrap book too
much...especially at shows...it definitely downgrades your car...everybody
wants to think that it was a Cherry! So if you gots lots of money and
time...buy the old wreck and fixer up- remember though, you will never get
the bucks back out of it and there not many good shape cars around- they
have all been restored.
--------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Rex & Maree Kelland", INTERNET:kelland@thevision.net
I noted one of the members comments of pertronix compared to mallory,I have
found that pertronix is a very good long lasting unit ,fit it & forget it &
compared to the price of around $60 for a complete kit as to mallory's $90
just for the module it'self ,,which I have found to be very susceptible to
voltage change ,(dont run more than 12 volts to the mallory module ) or
kiss goodbye to another $90,which sometimes happens in the crank position
if you have an alternator that really puts out ,as it bypasses the resistor
in this position,I learned this the hard way ,and now have doubled the
resistance on the voltage drop at the coil as the mallory tech's told me
there unit will run fine at even 6volts,and they gave me a wiring diagram
,to use with the resistors,I have now been using this on my 55 hardtop with
mallory unilite dist, for the last 6 years with no more problems ,but have
fitted many pertonix units to customers cars & found them to be very
reliable & easy to fit ,the longest time on installation is actually
shortening the wires to the coil so the installation looks neat,as it is
only a ten minute job to install the unit ,I would strongly suggest the
pertronix ignitor kit to anyone with a chevy as ,that points changing at
the back of the engine,just doesn't seem fun anymore after using these
units for the last few years ,I strongly recommend to just remove the
distributor from the eng,and lube up the advance weight mechanism etc &
give it the once over at installation,because this is the last time you'll
have to look at it again,thanks Kiwi ,member of central valley classic
chevy club ,hope to see anyone on the list at the route 66 run in Sept as
we will have a few cars down there ,Iam bringing my 55 home from the paint
booth tomorrow after giving the car a new look ,of parl white top and a
purple pearl lower half ,,check us out there.
Rex & Maree Kelland
kelland@thevision.net
(209) 523 6654
---------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Chevy156@aol.com, INTERNET:Chevy156@aol.com
I'm still wondering if driving that fast isn't good for a Classic!
Virginia in Bakersfield, CA
Well, All I've got to say is last month I took a trip with my 56 From
Brooklyn New York To Strongsville Ohio the trip took around 11 hours with
stops included.
The average speed my 56 was being driven was between 75 to 90 MPH.
The drive there was great & so was the similar drive back. Infact the long
drive has seemed to make the engine run better. I must admit I have a 700R4
overdrive tranny in my car so my engines RPM's are a lot less than that of
your typical Transmission.
It's very Possible that the Nomad you seen traveling at warp speed might
have
been sporting the same overdrive tranny as I have. With low rear end gears
he
could have easily been traveling 100 MPH or better. The engine would have
felt like it was slightly above an idle & the ride would have been as
smooth
as if he was driving 55.
I would bet the farm that the Nomad you encountered was no Stock Original
;o)
James ..... Chevy156@aol.com
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---------
end of 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
BOB FORD
18091 MARK CIRCLE
VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA 92861-2648
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BOB_FORD/
http://members.home.net:80/rick.b/Bobford.htm
VOICE 714-637-8877
FAX 714-637-2955
Editor of the 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST and TURBOGLIDE REGISTRY